Silver in probate estates
Silver is one of the most common valuable assets in UK probate estates, frequently appearing in the form of cutlery canteens, tea services, hollowware, and jewellery. Assessing and realising this value is a common challenge for executors and solicitors.
Probate valuations
For formal probate valuation (required by HMRC for Inheritance Tax purposes), you need a written valuation from a qualified valuer. InstaSilver can provide probate valuations for silver submitted to us — contact us to discuss your requirements. Our XRF testing provides precise metal content data for each item.
Probate valuations for IHT purposes should reflect the open market value at the date of death. Silver scrap value is typically used for common silverware; antique value may apply to exceptional pieces.
The selling process for estate silver
The process is identical to individual selling: submit through our online form, receive a free tracked QR label, send the silver, receive a confirmed offer. For large or complex estates, contact us first and we'll advise on batching and logistics.
Trade accounts for solicitors and estate agents
Solicitors, estate agents, and property clearance companies handling regular volumes of silver can apply for an InstaSilver trade account. Trade accounts offer: dedicated account management, batch submissions, consolidated invoicing, and volume-based pricing. See our probate solicitors page for details.
Identity checks for executors
UK law requires identity verification for precious metal transactions. For probate sales, we require evidence of the executor's authority (Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration) alongside standard identity verification. Contact us to discuss the requirements for your specific situation.
Realistic expectations
Most estate silver is most efficiently handled as scrap silver. Complete, excellent-condition sets by prestigious makers may warrant specialist auction, but for the majority of inherited silver — mixed canteens, worn pieces, common patterns — InstaSilver's 80% of spot rate will exceed what most auction houses or dealers offer after their fees.